These 9 Things Will Make You Smarter

Read These 9 Things, Sound (& Feel) Instantly Smarter

Stop by every Sunday for a collection of slightly longer reads (and watches) that delve into topics we think you'll find interesting, from our favorite writers and creators.

"If life worked the way theater does, then four out of five things heard in an entire life would be said by men." Playwright Marsha Norman (with Julia Jordan, not pictured) oversaw a study about women in theater, and the results are about what you'd expect. (New York Times)

Meet the homeless man who went to Harvard Law School with U.S. Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. and former Wisconsin Senator Russ Feingold. (Washington Post)

"As one reads Between the World and Me, it's easy to get caught up in Ta-Nehisi Coates' brutally descriptive prose and his startling assertions about whiteness." (The Root)

Pediophobia is a fear of dolls. If you're not creeped out by dolls (how are you not?), read this fascinating history of creepy dolls. (Smithsonian)

"We are told frequently that women are more intuitive, more empathetic, more innately willing and able to offer succor and advice. How convenient that this cultural construct gives men an excuse to be emotionally lazy." #GiveYourMoneyToWomen explained. (The-Toast)

Watch the Taharka Brothers crowdfund to make their ice cream dream a reality in this short film directed by the women behind Jesus Camp. (A Dream Preferred)